Joe Sambito was a 17th-round draft pick by the Astros who became one of the most dominating relievers in club history. Debuting in mid-1976, the lefty from Brooklyn quickly established himself as one of the best relievers in the league. From 1977 to 1981, Sambito had four seasons in which his ERA was 2.33 or below. In 1979, Sambito set a club record by tossing 40 consecutive scoreless innings over 27 appearances.

In early 1982, Sambito ruptured a ligament in his elbow and did not return to play until the 1984 season. He then opted for free agency and later played with Mets and Red Sox, pitching in the World Series for Boston in 1986.

In eight seasons with Houston, Sambito compiled a 33-32 record with 72 saves and a 2.42 ERA. For his career, he posted a 37-38 mark with 84 saves and a 3.03 ERA over 11 seasons. Since retirement, he has become a player agent, representing such players as Andy Pettitte and Ryan Klesko.